Review - Fathom: Kiani Vol. 2 #4

It's hard being a child of royalty. So many expectations and so many rebellious tendencies. Both of which are on full display in Fathom: Kiani Vol. 2 #4 from Aspen Comics.

The issue is written by Vince Hernandez, with art by Oliver Nome, Nacho Arranz and Lori Hanson, colors by John Starr and letters by Josh Reed.

The fate of the ocean hangs in the balance. No, literally, the ocean is hanging high as Kiani evokes one last push to truly be free. She's elevated it above the city of Marielle in an attempt to ward off Siphon and Killian from stopping her. What ensues is a whole lot of family feud and Kiani being put in her place so to speak.

Considering this was the final issue of the volume, Hernandez did a great job wrapping everything up neatly. That is to say, the rebellion was resolved, but the ending left open the possibility that there could be more discord in the future. Ultimately, Kiani is forced to deal with living in the shadow of Fathom herself, something that younger siblings can readily attest is an unenviable position.

The pacing of the story was quite frenetic, with Kiani attempting to broker peace amidst a crumbling ocean all around. She really gets close to losing it, making her own followers question her motives. That fact alone adds something to the book that makes Kiani just seem a touch more dangerous, regardless of how noble her cause may be.

The artistic team does a great job with the book. Lines are sharp and colors are vivid and they handle the massive fleet destruction scenes very well. Kiani herself is illustrated voluptuously, showcasing a determination to see her rebellion through to the end.

Overall, the four issues of Fathom: Kiani Vol. 2 really added a new layer to the Fathom universe. Kiani is shown as someone who needs to be redeemed, a notion that's self-imposed and carried out with sincere commitment. Where she goes from here is anyone's guess, but chances are, she's not done.

Fathom: Kiani Vol. 2 #4 is in stores now with interiors below